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Byrd named AL Player of the Week

Byrd named AL Player of the Week

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By Tom Singer
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MLB.com |

Texas outfielder Marlon Byrd reigns as the American League Player of the Week presented by Bank of America, for the period ending Sunday, after leading the league with 11 RBIs and sharing the lead with three home runs -- one of them of the historic variety.

His grand slam in the fifth-inning of Saturday's 15-3 victory over Tampa Bay was the 59th homer of his career -- and the sixth slam.

That left Byrd without company: According to the Elias Sports Bureau, he is the first player in Major League history with that many grand slams out of fewer than 60 homers.

Others considered for the award included the Tigers' Carlos Guillen (Majors-leading .563 average and 1.125 slugging percentage); Yankees closer Mariano Rivera (four saves as the Bombers nailed down the East Division title); Royals right-hander Zack Greinke (2-0 with an ERA of 0.69 ERA); and Twins outfielder Denard Span (six-RBI game on Saturday).

Tom Singer is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.